An air tanker was spotted after releasing water over a fire in the Bayers Lake area, roughly 10 kilometres west of downtown Halifax. CBC
A wildfire broke out Tuesday afternoon in Halifax’s Bayers Lake Business Park. It started in the wooded area behind Julius Boulevard and Dugger McNeil Drive, near a major building supply store. By evening, the blaze covered between 25 and 30 hectares. Officials described the fire as “out of control” despite progress made during the day.
Firefighting Efforts Continue Through the Night
Twelve provincial firefighters stayed at the scene overnight. A helicopter dropped water on the flames, while three firefighting planes from New Brunswick assisted before returning home. They remain ready to return if needed.
Most city firefighters left by late evening, planning to return Wednesday morning to reassess and continue efforts. Two fire engines stayed behind overnight to assist provincial crews.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Businesses between Kent Building Supplies and Julius Boulevard evacuated during the afternoon. Others nearby received evacuation requests as a precaution.
Police closed several roads overnight, including parts of Chain Lake Drive, Julius Boulevard, and Susie Lake Crescent. No homes faced evacuation, and officials confirmed no immediate threat to buildings.
Authorities urged people to avoid unnecessary travel to the area to help emergency crews and keep routes clear for evacuations.
Health Warnings Issued
Thick smoke drifted across Halifax and western Halifax County, prompting a special air quality statement. Health officials warned that smoke could cause breathing problems, especially for seniors, pregnant people, children, those with chronic illnesses, and outdoor workers.
They advised limiting outdoor activity, closing doors and windows, and seeking medical help if symptoms like coughing, chest pain, or wheezing develop.
First-Hand Accounts from Witnesses
Many people in Bayers Lake saw the smoke and left the area quickly. Veronica MacIsaac, dining at a local restaurant, noticed a large cloud of smoke spreading rapidly. Patrons paid their bills and hurried out.
She said road closures and traffic congestion made it difficult to leave. From her vantage point, smoke was visible across much of the city.
Current Status and Outlook
By nightfall, officials had not declared the fire under control. Crews will monitor conditions through the night and resume work at first light. Air tankers remain on standby, and road closures will stay in place until further notice.
The wildfire continues to create challenging conditions for firefighting teams, but clear coordination between local and provincial crews has helped slow its spread.
